Spain & Portugal Discovery

Touch down in captivating Lisbon and make your way to your hotel (on own). As most flights arrive in the early morning, your room may not yet be ready — simply leave your luggage with the concierge and your Tour Manager will point you toward the city’s highlights so you can start exploring straight away. Your tour officially kicks off with an orientation meeting at approximately 5:00pm, followed by a welcome dinner with the  group at a local restaurant. (D)

This morning, our locally guided tour begins at the summit of Edward VII Park, where sweeping views stretch across Lisbon’s rolling hills and the shimmering River Tagus. Continue to the iconic Belém Tower, a treasured 16th-century landmark, and step inside the magnificent Jerónimos Monastery — a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a sublime example of Portugal’s ornate Manueline architecture. Stroll afterwards along the elegant Avenida da Liberdade, one of the city’s grandest boulevards.

The afternoon is yours to enjoy at leisure, or join an optional excursion to the enchanting town of Sintra. Immortalized by Lord Byron as a “Glorious Eden,” this storied hillside retreat was once the favored summer residence of the Portuguese royal court, and its landscape is dotted with lavish castles and romantic monuments. Explore the Sintra Royal Palace, a magnificent 15th-century residence home to one of the finest tile collections in all of Portugal, then wander freely through the charming Village Historical Center before returning to Lisbon. (B)

Leave Lisbon behind this morning and head south, passing through the serene Alentejo region — a landscape of gently rolling hills, sprawling vineyards, and ancient cork oak trees. Cross into Spain at the border and enter the sun-drenched region of Andalucía, continuing through its picturesque countryside until you reach the vibrant city of Seville. This evening, experience the passion and drama of a live Flamenco show — a fitting introduction to a city widely celebrated as the very birthplace of this iconic art form. (B,D)

The day opens at the breathtaking Plaza de España, followed by a leisurely stroll through the fragrant gardens of María Luisa Park. From there, wind through the narrow cobblestone streets of the Barrio Santa Cruz — the city’s atmospheric former Jewish Quarter — before visiting the awe-inspiring Cathedral of Seville, legendary resting place of the great explorer Christopher Columbus.

The remainder of the day is free to enjoy at your own pace, or join an optional excursion to Córdoba, a city with roots stretching back to Roman times. Marvel at the Mezquita de Córdoba, one of the largest mosques ever built, dramatically transformed into a soaring cathedral during the 16th century. A walking tour through the ancient Jewish Quarter reveals a captivating labyrinth of narrow streets, sun-dappled squares, and a glimpse of the 14th-century synagogue along the storied Calle de los Judíos. Return to the hotel in the late afternoon, and gather this evening for dinner at a local restaurant. (B,D)

This morning, journey south to Ronda, a city of breathtaking drama perched high on the edge of a sheer cliff. Widely regarded as the birthplace of modern bullfighting, Ronda is home to the Plaza de Toros — the oldest bullring in all of Spain. Explore its storied interior, where historic stables, a fascinating museum, and tributes to legendary matadors bring centuries of tradition vividly to life. Afterwards, continue your journey onward to the sun-soaked shores of the Costa del Sol. (B,L)

Enjoy a full day of leisure along the sparkling Costa del Sol, soaking up everything this beloved resort destination has to offer. Alternatively, join an optional excursion to nearby Málaga, the sun-filled birthplace of Pablo Picasso. Immerse yourself in his extraordinary legacy at the Picasso Museum, home to more than 285 works generously donated by members of the artist’s own family. Wander along the grand Paseo de la Alameda and the scenic Paseo del Parque, and take in the colorful character of the Barrio de la Malagueta. A walking tour through Málaga’s historic heart offers charming views of the city’s magnificent cathedral, with a final stop at the lively Cathedral Square before heading back to the coast. This evening, dinner is served at the hotel. (B,D)

Set out today for the commanding Rock of Gibraltar, a British territory for more than 300 years and one of the world’s most storied landmarks, standing sentinel over the Strait of Gibraltar where the Atlantic Ocean meets the Mediterranean Sea and the continents of Europe and Africa seem almost within reach of one another. Board a minibus for a thrilling ascent up the Rock, stopping to explore the vast chambers of St. Michael’s Cave and to meet the famously cheeky Barbary apes — all against a backdrop of sweeping panoramic views stretching across both the Spanish and Moroccan coastlines. Afterwards, take some time to stroll along Gibraltar’s lively main street, lined with charming colonial architecture and tempting duty-free shops. Return to the Costa del Sol for the evening. (B)

*Please note that border crossings into Gibraltar may be subject to delays. As a British Overseas Territory independent from Spain, Gibraltar maintains its own entry requirements separate from those of the European Union. Travelers holding non-US passports are responsible for checking whether a visa is required for Gibraltar, in addition to verifying entry requirements for all other countries on their itinerary.

Leave the southern coast behind and journey inland to the enchanting Moorish city of Granada. The undisputed highlight is a tour of the legendary Alhambra, a 13th-century masterpiece perched dramatically atop Assabica Hill, commanding sweeping views over the city below. This magnificent hilltop fortress — a UNESCO World Heritage Site — stands as one of the finest expressions of Moorish art and architecture anywhere in the world, and once served as the opulent residence of Granada’s royal family during the era of Moorish rule. Stroll through the serene lanes of the Generalife Gardens, where beautifully sculpted courtyards, cascading waterfalls, and tranquil reflecting ponds unfold against a stunning backdrop of the snow-capped Sierra Nevada Mountains. (B,D)

Today’s journey takes you through the storied region of La Mancha, immortalized as the legendary homeland of Don Quixote, where iconic windmills punctuate the vast and sweeping landscape. Continue on to Toledo, the former capital of Spain and a city that wears its medieval soul proudly. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Toledo is celebrated for its extraordinary monumental heritage and its rare history of peaceful coexistence among Christian, Muslim, and Jewish cultures — a legacy that can be felt at every turn. A walking tour through its ancient streets includes a visit to the Church of Santo Tomé, home to one of El Greco’s most celebrated masterpieces, and the hauntingly beautiful Synagogue of Santa María la Blanca. Afterwards, continue on to Madrid, where the evening is yours to explore freely. (B)

This morning, embark on a sweeping sightseeing tour of Spain’s vibrant capital. Drive along the iconic Gran Vía through the historic Opera District, past the grand Plaza de Colón, and take in the magnificent façade of the Royal Palace. Continue by the elegant Plaza de Cibeles and the triumphant Puerta de Alcalá before culminating your tour at the world-renowned Prado Museum, one of the greatest art museums on earth, where masterworks by El Greco, Velázquez, and Ribera await at every turn.

The afternoon is free to enjoy at your leisure, or join an optional excursion to El Escorial, a monument so extraordinary it has often been described as the eighth wonder of the world. At once a royal palace, monastery, and mausoleum, El Escorial stands as perhaps the most enduring legacy of King Philip II — a monumental vision in stone that has captivated visitors for centuries. (B)

This morning, transfer to Madrid’s train station and board the sleek AVE high-speed train, arriving in the magnificent city of Barcelona — a place of seemingly endless museums, galleries, and inviting cafés. Upon arrival, set out on an orientation tour of the city, including a visit to the iconic Montjuïc Hill, home to the celebrated Olympic Complex built for the 1992 Summer Games. After transferring to your hotel, the rest of the day is yours to enjoy at your own pace. Why not take a leisurely stroll along Las Ramblas, Barcelona’s beloved tree-lined pedestrian boulevard, alive with colorful market stalls and captivating street performers at every step. (B)

This morning’s tour of Barcelona opens with a scenic drive along the historic harbor to the bustling Plaza de Catalunya, the vibrant heart of the city. From there, marvel at the visionary works of Antoni Gaudí, Barcelona’s legendary master architect. Stand in awe before the soaring spires of La Sagrada Família*, the city’s most iconic symbol, whose construction — begun in 1882 — continues to this day. Continue to the mesmerizing Casa Batlló, its undulating façade of shimmering tiles and bone-like columns unlike anything else in the world. The afternoon is yours to discover Barcelona at your own pace, with countless galleries, markets, neighborhoods, and hidden gems waiting to be explored. (B)

*Please note that entrance to La Sagrada Família is not included in your tour. Those wishing to visit independently are strongly encouraged to book tickets in advance, as availability fills up quickly.

Enjoy a full day at leisure to continue discovering Barcelona at your own pace, or join an optional morning excursion to the spectacular mountain sanctuary of Montserrat. The journey there is a delight in itself, winding past picturesque villages before the dramatic rocky peaks of Montserrat come into view. Upon arrival, step inside the revered Royal Basilica to admire the celebrated 12th-century Romanesque sculpture of the “Virgen Moreneta” — the Black Madonna — one of the most cherished religious icons in all of Catalonia. This evening, raise a glass and share fond memories over a farewell dinner with your Tour Manager, a fitting send-off to an unforgettable journey. (B,D)

Our adventure comes to a close today. Transfer to the airport (on own) for your journey onward. (B)